what is the expected lifespan of a person suffering from muscular dystrophy?

Answer 1

There are dozens of types of neuromuscular diseases. Some are dystrophies, some are atrophies, and there are other categories. When I was a kid in the early 70's, doctors and researchers frequently gave life expectancy estimates, but they fortunately don't seem to be doing that anymore. There are way too many factors; technology, medication, quality of care, availability of care, mental health, diet, etc.. Based on early guesswork, I should have died at age 14. I'm 40. On the other hand, I knew many people who died before reaching the age of 20. My older brother died in infancy because of it.

The best one can do is to know the diagnosis, ask lots of questions, and be proactive about getting and utilizing all needed supports. Here's a comprehensive list of neuromuscular diseases: http://www.mda.org/disease/40list.html

Answer 2

There are several types of Muscular Dystrophy but one of the more common forms is passed from the mother and affects the sons. Boys usually succomb in their mid teens. Girls can be tested by at least age 12 to see if they carry the gene for this type of MD.

Answer 3

Generally speaking, lifespan is not affected, except perhaps in the most severe cases with greatly impaired mobility and consequent greater risk of chest infections.